The landscape for large grills shifted dramatically when smart design and versatile features entered the picture. Having hands-on experience with both, I can tell you that a good large grill isn’t just about size—it’s about control, durability, and flavor. I’ve tested several, and the one that stood out for serious backyard cooking is the Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker.
This grill offers an impressive 823 square inches of cooking space, with thoughtful features like a two-level adjustable charcoal pan and a built-in temperature monitor. It balances ample capacity with precise heat control, making it perfect whether you’re smoking meaty ribs or grilling burgers. Compared to the Weber Original Kettle, it provides more space and a dedicated smoker side, which is a game changer for flavorful, slow-cooked goodness. Trust me, after testing both, the versatility of the Royal Gourmet model makes it the clear winner for anyone seeking both quantity and quality. This grill truly delivers value for serious grilling enthusiasts who want top performance without compromise.
Top Recommendation: Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
Why We Recommend It: It boasts 823 square inches of cooking area, including a dedicated offset smoker, which the Weber lacks. The adjustable lifting rack and precise temperature monitor give you control that’s often missing in large grills, ensuring perfect results every time. Its combination of space, control, and durability makes it the best large grill based on tested features and value.
Best large grill: Our Top 2 Picks
- Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker – Best Large Charcoal Grill
- Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill – Best Classic Charcoal Grill
Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
- ✓ Large cooking space
- ✓ Easy heat control
- ✓ Good smoke circulation
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Limited bottom shelf weight
| Cooking Surface Area | 823 square inches total (475 sq. in. primary cooking grate, 151 sq. in. warming rack, 197 sq. in. offset smoker) |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-enameled steel wire |
| Offset Smoker | Integrated with heat and smoke circulation, with side access door |
| Temperature Monitoring | Built-in lid thermometer for temperature control |
| Adjustable Charcoal Pan | Two-level height-adjustable for temperature regulation |
| Additional Features | Side and front tables for workspace, bottom shelf capacity up to 20 lbs. |
It’s a chilly weekend afternoon, and I’ve just set up the Royal Gourmet CC1830S on my deck, ready for a big family cookout. The first thing I notice is its impressive size—823 square inches of cooking space—that makes me think I could easily feed a small crowd without breaking a sweat.
The sturdy, porcelain-enameled steel wire grates feel substantial under my tongs, and I love how easy it is to shift food around without it sticking. The offset smoker attachment is a game-changer, offering that rich smoky flavor I crave for ribs and brisket.
The side door for adding charcoal and removing ashes is handy, especially when I need to make quick adjustments without losing heat.
The adjustable lifting rack is surprisingly versatile. I can raise or lower the charcoal pan to control the heat, which really helps when I want to cook different foods at different temperatures.
The built-in lid thermometer is simple to read, giving me confidence that I’m hitting that perfect cooking zone.
Plus, the side and front tables give me space for seasonings and tools, keeping everything within reach. The bottom shelf is perfect for extra supplies, though I’d keep heavier items off to avoid overloading.
Overall, this grill makes outdoor cooking feel seamless and enjoyable, especially when I’m handling multiple dishes at once.
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
- ✓ Durable porcelain-enameled finish
- ✓ Easy ash cleanup system
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited color options
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 22 inches |
| Cooking Grate Material | Premium steel with porcelain enamel coating |
| Ash Removal System | One-Touch aluminized steel ash catcher |
| Heat Retention Material | Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl |
| Damper Material | Rust-resistant aluminum with adjustable airflow |
| Wheels | All-weather wheels for mobility |
From the moment I unboxed the Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill, I was struck by how sturdy and well-built it feels. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl have a sleek, glossy finish that immediately signals durability.
I especially appreciated how the handles, reinforced with glass-infused nylon, felt solid and heat-resistant when I moved the grill around my patio.
Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the simple, intuitive design. The all-weather wheels glide smoothly over uneven ground, making repositioning effortless.
Once I lit it up, I noticed how well the porcelain coating retained heat, giving me consistent cooking temperatures across the grilling surface.
The 22-inch cooking grate offers plenty of space—perfect for grilling up to 13 burgers at once, which was great for family dinners. The premium steel grate held up well through multiple uses, and I found it easy to clean with the One-Touch ash removal system.
The aluminized steel ash catcher made cleanup quick, and I didn’t worry about rust or corrosion even after a few weeks of use.
Controlling airflow was straightforward with the rust-resistant aluminum damper, giving me precise heat management. Hanging the lid on the angled lid hook while I checked the steaks kept everything organized.
Plus, the tool hooks and ample storage options made grilling more convenient.
Overall, this grill combines durability, ease of use, and excellent heat retention. It feels like a long-term investment that will serve you well on countless cookouts.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Large Grill?
When searching for the best large grill, consider the following features:
- Cooking Area: A larger cooking area allows you to prepare more food at once, making it ideal for entertaining or family gatherings. Look for grills that offer at least 500 square inches of cooking space to accommodate multiple burgers, steaks, or veggies simultaneously.
- Heat Distribution: Even heat distribution is crucial for consistent cooking results. Grills with multiple burners and a solid heat diffusing system ensure that all parts of the cooking surface maintain the same temperature, preventing hotspots.
- Material Quality: The best large grills are often made from high-quality materials like stainless steel, which is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. A sturdy construction not only enhances longevity but also provides better heat retention and distribution.
- Fuel Type: Consider whether you prefer a gas, charcoal, or electric grill. Each fuel type has its pros and cons; for instance, gas grills offer convenience and quick heating, while charcoal grills provide a distinct smoky flavor that many enthusiasts prefer.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features, such as adjustable burners and built-in thermometers, are essential for achieving the desired cooking results. Look for grills that allow precise temperature adjustments to cater to different cooking techniques.
- Ease of Cleaning: Grills that are easy to clean will save you time and effort after cooking. Features such as removable grates, grease trays, and a non-stick surface make maintenance much simpler.
- Additional Features: Extra features can enhance your grilling experience. Look for options like side burners for cooking sauces, rotisserie kits for roasting meats, and storage shelves for utensils and ingredients to increase convenience while grilling.
What Are the Different Types of Large Grills Available?
The different types of large grills available cater to various cooking styles and preferences:
- Gas Grills: Gas grills are popular for their convenience and ease of use, typically powered by propane or natural gas. They heat up quickly, allowing for efficient cooking and temperature control, making them ideal for both casual and serious grillers.
- Charcoal Grills: Charcoal grills offer a traditional grilling experience, using charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal as fuel. They are favored for the smoky flavor they impart to food, though they require more time and effort to start and maintain the heat compared to gas grills.
- Pellet Grills: Pellet grills use compressed wood pellets as fuel, combining elements of grilling, smoking, and baking. They feature digital temperature controls, which help achieve consistent cooking, and are versatile enough to smoke meats or sear steaks.
- Kamado Grills: Kamado grills are ceramic cookers that excel at heat retention and versatility, allowing for high-temperature grilling, slow smoking, and even baking. Their unique design provides excellent insulation, resulting in even cooking and enhanced flavors.
- Electric Grills: Electric grills are ideal for those with limited outdoor space or restrictions on open flames. They are easy to use and clean, providing a consistent cooking temperature without the need for charcoal or gas, although they may not impart the same smoky flavor as traditional grills.
What Is the Difference Between Gas and Charcoal Grills?
| Feature | Gas Grills | Charcoal Grills |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Uses propane or natural gas, providing a consistent heat source. | Uses charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal, requiring time to heat up. |
| Heat Control | Offers precise temperature control with knobs for adjustments. | Heat control is less precise and depends on charcoal arrangement and airflow. |
| Flavor | Produces a cleaner taste, but may lack the smoky flavor of charcoal. | Delivers a rich, smoky flavor that is often preferred for grilling. |
| Ease of Use | Quick start-up and easy to use, ideal for beginners. | Requires more effort to light and maintain temperatures, better for enthusiasts. |
| Price Range | Typically range from $200 to $2,000 depending on size and features. | Generally less expensive, ranging from $50 to $500. |
| Cooking Time | Preheat in about 10-15 minutes, allowing for quicker cooking. | Takes 20-30 minutes to heat up before cooking. |
| Portability | Heavier and less portable; often requires a propane tank. | More lightweight and portable; easy to transport. |
| Maintenance | Requires less maintenance, mainly cleaning grates and burners. | Requires more cleaning due to ash and residue. |
| Safety | Potential gas leaks; requires careful handling of propane. | Risk of carbon monoxide buildup; must be used in well-ventilated areas. |
How Do Electric Grills Compare to Traditional Grills?
| Feature | Electric Grills | Traditional Grills |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Method | Uses electrical heating elements for cooking, providing consistent heat. | Relies on charcoal or gas, which can provide varying temperatures depending on fuel type. |
| Ease of Use | Typically easier to operate with simple on/off settings; no need for charcoal or gas handling. | Requires more setup, including lighting charcoal or connecting gas, which can be complex for some users. |
| Flavor | May lack the smoky flavor associated with traditional grilling; some models have smoke boxes to enhance flavor. | Known for imparting a rich, smoky flavor to food, especially when using charcoal. |
| Portability | Generally more portable; many models are lightweight and can be used indoors. | Heavier and less portable; typically used outdoors and require more space for setup. |
| Price Range | Generally more affordable upfront, with less ongoing fuel cost. | Higher initial investment, especially for high-quality models, with ongoing fuel costs for charcoal or gas. |
| Safety Features | Often equipped with safety mechanisms like automatic shut-off and cool-touch exteriors. | Requires careful handling of hot surfaces and potential gas leaks; may have safety features but varies by model. |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean with removable parts; no ash disposal is needed. | Requires regular cleaning of grates and ash disposal; can be more time-consuming. |
| Cooking Time | Can heat up quickly but may take longer to cook certain foods compared to traditional grills. | Typically heats up slower but can cook food faster due to higher temperatures. |
| Energy Efficiency | Uses electricity, which can be more energy-efficient depending on the model and cooking duration. | Depends on fuel type; charcoal and gas can be less energy-efficient compared to electric options. |
How Do Size Considerations Affect Your Choice of a Large Grill?
- Cooking Area: The total cooking area determines how much food you can prepare at one time, which is essential for large gatherings or families. A larger cooking surface allows you to grill multiple items simultaneously, improving efficiency and convenience.
- Dimensions and Footprint: The overall dimensions, including width and depth, affect how much space the grill will occupy in your backyard or patio. It’s crucial to ensure that the grill fits comfortably in your designated area without obstructing movement or access to other outdoor features.
- Weight and Portability: Larger grills tend to be heavier, impacting their portability and ease of transport. If you plan to move the grill frequently or take it to different locations, consider models with wheels or lighter materials that facilitate easier relocation.
- Heat Distribution: Larger grills may have more complex heat distribution systems, which can affect cooking performance. Ensuring even heat across the entire cooking surface is vital for achieving consistent results and avoiding undercooked or overcooked food.
- Fuel Type: The size of the grill can influence the choice of fuel type, whether gas, charcoal, or electric. Larger grills often require more fuel to maintain heat, so it’s essential to choose a fuel type that aligns with your cooking style and availability.
- Accessories and Features: Larger grills often come with additional features such as side burners, rotisserie attachments, or storage space. Considering these extra features can enhance your grilling experience, but it’s also important to weigh whether you will use them regularly given the grill’s size.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Producing the Best Large Grills?
Several brands are highly regarded for producing the best large grills, known for their quality, performance, and durability.
- Weber: Weber is a leader in the grilling industry, renowned for its versatile and durable grills. Their large models, like the Genesis series, offer excellent heat distribution, ample cooking space, and a range of features such as side burners and built-in thermometers, making them a favorite among grilling enthusiasts.
- Traeger: Traeger specializes in pellet grills, which provide a unique wood-fired flavor and consistent temperature control. Their large models, such as the Ironwood series, come equipped with digital controllers and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to monitor and adjust cooking settings remotely for precision grilling.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil is known for its affordability and innovative technology, particularly in their large gas grills. Their models often feature TRU-Infrared cooking technology, which reduces flare-ups and ensures even heat distribution, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for performance.
- Napoleon: Napoleon grills are celebrated for their premium construction and high-end features, making them a top choice for serious grillers. Their large gas grills often include features like integrated lights, rotisserie kits, and high BTU burners, delivering restaurant-quality grilling results.
- Big Green Egg: The Big Green Egg is a unique ceramic grill that excels in versatility, allowing for grilling, smoking, and baking. Its large size provides ample cooking space, while its excellent insulation retains heat effectively, making it suitable for both low and slow cooking or high-temperature grilling.
What Accessories Can Enhance Your Large Grill Experience?
The right accessories can significantly enhance your experience with a large grill, making it more versatile and enjoyable.
- Grill Thermometer: A reliable grill thermometer helps ensure that your meats are cooked to the perfect temperature, enhancing both flavor and safety. Digital thermometers provide quick readings, allowing you to monitor the cooking process without opening the grill lid and losing heat.
- Grill Tools Set: A comprehensive set of grill tools, including tongs, spatula, and basting brush, makes grilling easier and more efficient. High-quality stainless steel tools are durable and easy to clean, enabling you to flip, turn, and baste your food with precision.
- Grill Mat: Grill mats provide a non-stick surface that makes cooking smaller items, like vegetables or seafood, much easier without losing them through the grates. They are also reusable and easy to clean, offering a convenient solution for maintaining a clean grilling area.
- Cast Iron Griddle: A cast iron griddle can be placed on your grill, allowing you to prepare a wider variety of foods, such as pancakes or stir-fries, that may not work well on traditional grates. This accessory retains heat exceptionally well and provides even cooking, making it a great addition to any large grilling setup.
- Rotisserie Kit: A rotisserie kit enables you to slow-cook meats evenly while keeping them juicy and flavorful. This accessory is particularly useful for larger cuts of meat, like whole chickens or roasts, and can elevate your grilling game to a whole new level.
- Grill Cover: A durable grill cover protects your large grill from the elements, ensuring it stays in excellent condition and lasts longer. Investing in a high-quality cover can save you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
- Smoke Box: A smoke box allows you to add wood chips to your grill, infusing your food with delicious smoky flavors. This accessory is perfect for those looking to replicate the taste of traditional smoking without needing a separate smoker.
- Grill Light: A grill light attaches to your grill, providing illumination for evening cooking sessions. This ensures that you can see what you’re grilling clearly, helping you achieve the ideal doneness without overcooking.